Trip Recap

Question

Excellent coastal trip exploring Bar Harbor, Boothbay Harbor and Portland. I do have to say I was taken aback by the prices though. Prices in Boothbay especially, rival those at high end Manhattan restaurants. Not sure why the prices are so much higher than other destinations especially since you'd think the COL would be much lower. Any how the scenery and yes the food were amazing.

Answer

It sounds like you had an amazing time exploring the coast of Maine! Bar Harbor, Boothbay Harbor, and Portland are all beautiful destinations with lots of charm, but I can understand your surprise about the prices, especially in Boothbay Harbor.

Regarding the higher prices, there are a few factors that can contribute to the cost of dining and accommodations in these coastal towns:

Tourism Demand: Maine, particularly during the summer and fall months, sees a large influx of tourists. Popular spots like Bar Harbor and Boothbay Harbor can be particularly busy, which often drives up prices. This is common in places that attract a lot of seasonal visitors.
Limited Supply and High Operating Costs: Many of the restaurants in these coastal towns are smaller, independently owned, and sometimes located in more remote or hard-to-reach places. The cost of bringing in fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and operating in these picturesque but expensive areas can result in higher menu prices.
Luxury Experience: Coastal Maine is known for its upscale dining experiences, especially in tourist-heavy spots. Many of the restaurants offer high-quality seafood, waterfront dining, and unique local dishes, which can command a premium. If you're looking at fine dining establishments in areas like Boothbay, you're essentially paying for the exclusive experience, ambiance, and the location itself.

However, while prices in these areas can be high, it’s good to know that there are still plenty of options for more casual dining and great seafood at a reasonable price. Many towns, including Bar Harbor and Portland, have a mix of high-end and more affordable options, so with a bit of research, you can find some great meals that won’t break the bank.

Despite the sticker shock, I’m glad to hear you enjoyed the scenery and the food! Maine’s coastal beauty and its famous lobster and seafood are worth experiencing, even if the prices might be a bit higher than expected.

If you're planning to return in the future and want to avoid the higher prices, consider visiting during the off-season (late fall or early spring) when the crowds are smaller, and prices tend to be lower. You’ll still get to enjoy the same stunning views without as much of a price tag!

Hope this helps explain the pricing a bit. Thanks for sharing your trip recap, and I hope you have many more wonderful adventures ahead!